St. Mary's Golf Team Wins State Championship!

Our birdies are state champs! The St. Mary's golf team celebrated a historic victory at the 2024 Tennessee Division II-AA State Championship at The Sevierville Golf Club. With a 9-stroke lead, the team clinched the title, defeating the Baylor School from Chattanooga and showcasing our girls' prowess and talent.

Congratulations to our state champions, Hana Barber ‘25, Sophia Wilson ‘26, Jada Lin ‘29, and Anika Kharbanda ‘29! Coach Jeff McCalla expressed his pride in the team's accomplishments, noting the team's blend of experience and youth.

"We had four seniors, one junior, one freshman, and three 8th graders on the team – we were loaded with talent. In fact, at Regionals, we had three of the top five golfers in all of West Tennessee. At the state tournament, I think we really surprised the Baylor School with our play, beating them by nine strokes."

Team Captain Hana Barber '25, who has played golf since 6th grade, reflected on her journey and the game's mental challenges.

"Golf is challenging, and it pushes you both mentally and physically," she said. "It took me at least four years to become polished and comfortable. Golf is like life—one bad shot doesn't mean the game is over. You learn to keep pushing on."

Barber, who finished second individually with a 1-under score, also highlighted the team's strong bond.

"Even though golf is an individual game, we've formed such close ties. This year, going to state as a team for the first time has been amazing," she said

The team's collective performance was impressive, with eighth-grader Jada Lin tying for third place, shooting four over. 

St. Mary's has much to celebrate as they look forward to even more success in the years to come.

"The future looks bright with all the young players that are coming along quite nicely!" said Coach McCalla.

Congratulations to our state champions!